Weighted Blankets 101

There has been a great deal of interest in weighted blankets lately. Occupational therapists have been using weighted objects for years to calm and organize the sensory system. Weighted blankets may help with anxiety, insomnia, and challenging behaviors for individuals with autism – what a great tool! It can be confusing to know where to get started and how to use them. This information is intended to be a beginner’s guide for the safe use of weighted blankets. As with any therapeutic intervention it is best to seek the advice of a trained healthcare professional first.There has been a great deal of interest in weighted blankets lately. Occupational therapists have been using weighted objects for years to calm and organize the sensory system. Weighted blankets may help with anxiety, insomnia, and challenging behaviors for individuals with autism – what a great tool! It can be confusing to know where to get started and how to use them. This information is intended to be a beginner’s guide for the safe use of weighted blankets. As with any therapeutic intervention it is best to seek the advice of a trained healthcare professional first.But first - how do weighted blankets work?

Deep Pressure Stimulation

Deep pressure is a form of sensory modality. This is a fancy term for something we do all the time: using our senses to feel better. Think about it – do you ever listen to music to feel energized or relaxed? Do you use candles or incense because you enjoy the smell? Do you have a special sweater or blanket that is soft to the touch? Deep pressure is like these other things. It’s the relaxing effect that a baby experiences when swaddled or that you feel when you get a bear hug. Deep pressure engages the proprioceptive system to help lower anxiety and feelings of overstimulation. Deep pressure can be especially helpful for individuals with autism who may have difficulty processing sensory input. Their atypical proprioceptive systems can leave them feeling uncomfortable in their bodies. This often leads to anxiety, overstimulation, and challenging behaviors.

Safety Guidelines

Safety GuidelinesThere are several safety factors to keep in mind when using a weighted blanket. When in doubt, ask a healthcare professional.

Individuals should not use a weighted blanket if they have any of the following medical concerns:

Respiratory precautions

Cardiac/circulatory problems

Open wounds or fragile skin

Lifting precautions (individual should be able to safely lift the blanket)

Orthopedic issues (broken/fractured bones)

Consider any history of trauma, especially if the individual experiences claustrophobia

The individual must be able to remove the blanket independently if using unsupervised

NEVER put a weighted blanket over the head

Consider any posture issues when using in a seated position

Always obtain medical clearance if there are any concerns!

Using a Weighted Blanket

Using a Weighted BlanketUsing a weighted blanket should be a calming, positive experience. This means that the individual using the blanket should have as much control as possible. The blanket should NEVER be used as a restraint or forced upon someone who does not want to use it.

Explore blanket weight. While the general guideline for weight is 10% of an individual’s body weight, preferences for weight may vary. As long as the person can safely remove the blanket independently, up to 30 lbs. may be appropriate for an adult.

Offer the blanket to the individual but allow them to decide when and for how long they want to use it.

Weighted blankets may safely be used seated or lying down. Be sure to monitor posture if using when seated.

Consider safety when determining if a person can use a weighted blanket without direct supervision. Remember, the blanket should never go over the head and must be able to be removed independently.

Monitor any changes in behavior and anxiety levels. It’s important to know if the weighted blanket is providing any benefit.

Seated

Lying Down

Source: Amazon.com

Blanket Weight Chart

Body Weight

Blanket Weight

20 – 40 lbs

3 – 6 lbs

30 – 50 lbs

4 – 7 lbs

50 – 70 lbs

6 – 9 lbs

70 – 90 lbs

8 – 10 lbs

90 – 110 lbs

9 – 11 lbs

110 – 120 lbs

11 – 12 lbs

120 – 130 lbs

12 – 13 lbs

140 – 160 lbs

13 – 14 lbs

160 – 180 lbs

14 – 16 lbs

180 – 200 lbs

18 – 20 lbs

200+ lbs

20 – 30 lbs

* These are simply guidelines. Remember, as long as the individual can lift the blanket, they should choose whatever weight is most comfortable.